 Dear Neighbors, To those who celebrated Passover and Easter, I hope you were able to spend time with friends and loved ones. We are back from the legislative break and diving right into major legislation, including my bill to provide funding for Hennepin Medical County Medical Center (HCMC) amid its current crisis. There'll be more on it below, but for now it’s an option to consider for how to ensure HCMC is around for years to come. I look forward to joining community tomorrow at my ‘Coffee & Conversation’ at Heal Mpls from 11am-1pm. No registration required, we’ll see you there.  Saving HCMC This week, I presented my bipartisan ‘Ballpark’ tax bill to help HCMC stay afloat in the House Tax Committee alongside Rep. Danny Nadeau. It was a robust discussion, and I am thankful for all the dedicated healthcare workers, doctors, and leaders testifying in support of the bill. I am proud to bring one of many ideas to the table. While most of the debate centered on what led to the crisis and how to get out of it, some members appeared more interested in Hennepin County personnel dynamics than on the crisis at hand. The stakes are high: Minnesotans’ lives are at risk and talented professionals could lose their jobs. Hennepin Healthcare System is currently facing several significant financial challenges, including: - A $50 million short-term budget shortfall.
- A $1.7 billion reduction in Medicaid revenue.
- The closure of UCare.
- A projected $100 million loss in uncompensated care.
The potential closure of HCMC means that we must act now with a solution that allows for the stability of the hospital. The health care professionals at HCMC provide lifesaving treatment to patients experiencing unimaginable pain and difficult times. Without fail, they show up ready to deliver premier-level care. We owe it to these professionals and staff members to do everything we can to support and invest in their work—and save HCMC. By working together to save this regional asset, we can develop a long-term plan with safeguards and milestones to ensure HCMC remains open for years to come. HCMC serves Minnesotans from every corner of the state; it is up to all of us to find a path forward that protects this lifeline and integral pillar of healthcare in the Upper Midwest. The potential collapse of this health system places the entire state at risk. I am committed to working with my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to ensure HCMC remains a beacon of hope and healing for generations to come. Watch my bill presentation here. Read about it in the news:  Arbor Day 2026 Come join the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board’s Arbor Day Celebration on Friday, April 24, from 4–8 p.m. at Bethune Park. There will be a variety of free activities for you and your family. Bring your loved ones—I look forward to seeing you there! For more information visit their website here.  Let’s Stay Connected! I deeply value being in this work to improve lives with you. Please continue to reach out with any input, ideas, or feedback about the issues important to you. Please reach out anytime if you need assistance, schedule a meeting or community event, or have questions at rep.esther.agbaje@house.mn.gov or 651-296-8659. In community, Rep. Esther Agbaje Minnesota House of Representatives (59B) Legislative Assistant Aishat Tiamiyu aishat.tiamiyu@house.mn.gov 651-297-8387 Due to technological limitations, this mailbox is not monitored. To reach Rep. Esther Agbaje directly, please email rep.esther.agbaje@house.mn.gov |